Essential Oils, Aromatherapy, and Their Effect on Your Health

Since the dawn of history, it's been well established that the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese and East Indians have used essential oils for religious rituals, for their healing and soothing properties, as well as for bathing rituals, romantic seduction and beauty. Today, it seems that we are embracing not only the elements of these ancient practices, but also recognizing the connection that smell has on our individual psyche and well-being.nnJust think for a moment of how the aroma of a fresh baked apple pie conjures up memories in an instant, or perhaps how coconut oil can have you sitting beachside or longing to sit on the beach – that's the power and attraction of scent!nnThe study of aromatherapy encompasses not only the sense of smell but also the positive properties and chemical effects essential oils have on the body. nnWhat are essential oils?nnEssential oils are natural substances extracted via distillation from tiny molecular sacs of each botanical. They are a part of the plant's immune system and yet, a separate substance from the plant. The distillation process gently extracts the volatile oil from the plant’s parts.nnThese essences are natural and so they work in harmony with the body.nnEssential oils are highly concentrated extracts that contain hormones, vitamins and antiseptics that work on many levels. They are 75 - 100 times more concentrated than dried herbs.nnAll essential oils, to a greater or lesser extent, exhibit the following characteristics nn• Antiseptic (prevents or combats infection locally); Anti-oxidant; n• Anti-Inflammatory; Astringent; n• Bactericide (kills bacteria); Bacteriostatic (inhibits growth of bacteria); n• Cytophylatic (promotes cell rejuvenation when applied to the skin). nnWhy are essential oils so special?nnConsidered the “soul” of the plant, those who truly appreciate the special qualities of “pure” essential oils regard each drop as a precious jewel to be savored, enjoyed and protected. You have to experience pure essential oils to appreciate the difference. Due to the highly concentrated nature of essential oils, most applications require drops rather than ounces. nnThe tiny molecular structure of each oil permeates into the skin’s surface through the olfactory nerves in the nose. Since they are highly concentrated, they are not to be applied directly on the skin. That is why we use carrier oils, creams and gels, etc. to facilitate their absorption.nnEssential oils absorb into the fluid surrounding the cells beneath the skin's surface for deep cleansing, nourishing, rejuvenation, balancing and antiseptic benefits. Essential oils diffuse into the air for purifying, refreshing, calming, stimulating and antibacterial benefits. They perform their healthy work both topically and internally.nnWhy red marine algae?nn• It contains a rich source of amino acids which help to strengthen the collagen and elastin macro molecules.n• It is also extremely rich in antioxidant agents by containing vitamins A, B1, C and E as well as oligo-elements (the minor minerals) – zinc, manganese, copper and selenium all necessary for your skin to fight against time actionsn• Stimulates cellular rejuvenation.n• Reduces fine surface lines & wrinkles.n• Increases skin’s firmness.n• The presence of polysaccharides ensures "red marine algae" to be one of the most effective moisturizing agents to insure long-lasting prevention of dehydration of the skin. nn